In this brief market‑news segment, the presenter outlines several key U.S. economic trends. The U.S. dollar is losing ground, having given back about half of its 2022 gains as investors anticipate slower inflation. Jobless claims rose only modestly and remain near pre‑pandemic levels, indicating a historically tight labor market. Middle‑income household paychecks saw a 2.9% drop in purchasing power in 2022, reflecting inflation’s heavier impact on this group. Housing data show October home prices were flat month‑over‑month (0.0%) but up 9.8% year‑over‑year, while pending home sales fell 4% in November, pressured by higher mortgage rates and limited inventory. Mortgage activity saw a modest 0.9% rise in applications overall, with refinance applications up 6% week‑over‑week and purchase applications down 0.1%. The segment ends with a thank‑you to viewers.
